What Are Founders Pennies?

Founders Pennies are a voluntary contribution from Soroptimist members remitted to headquarters by clubs. As with all contributions, Founders Pennies are not mandatory, but the members of Soroptimist International of Elk Grove are a proud supporter of this program.

When did the tradition of Founders Pennies begin?

The tradition of giving pennies began in 1943. Clubs collected one penny for each year of Soroptimist’s existence and used the money to help re‐establish clubs in Europe that had disbanded as a result of pre‐World War II political conditions and the war itself. In 1946 the fund was renamed the Founders Fund. This fund provided international fellowships, scholarships and other awards to improve the status of women. Beginning in the 1960s, Founders Pennies began funding for the Youth Citizenship Awards, and now the Live Your Dream Awards.

What kind of recognition is given for Founders Pennies contributions?

Clubs that participate in Founders Pennies have our deepest gratitude and are awarded a digital badge of recognition to display on their club website. Each year a new Founders Pennies virtual badge is issued.